On the House with Mark Molthan: Arched Doorway Designs

The arched doorway in this home features a knotty alder wood casing that has been stained and finished with a gel glaze.

When it comes to designing your custom home, the difference between ordinary and extraordinary is found in the details—and arched doorways are no exception. Consider a one-of-a-kind archway to connect your family room or kitchen to a center hall or entry foyer. “Arched doorways are used to define a room,” Mark says. “They allow you to maintain a subtle separation—rather than a jarring one (think square openings or solid doors)—between spaces. They’re an ideal design solution for door openings in the main areas of a home or hallways that lead away from entertaining and living spaces.”

Mark recommends a cased finish to give your arched doorway the wow factor. “Casing provides a more finished look,” he says. “When you use certain finishing materials, like stone or wood rather than sheetrock, a cased arched doorway becomes a stunning focal point of unique craftsmanship in your home.”

Connecting the formal living room to the center hall, this beautiful arched doorway is cased with stunning, custom cut limestone.